I am often asked what is the ideal temperature for storage of wine. I could spend hours discussing temperature and wine storage. In short, the "perfect temperature" for storing wine historically arises from local custom. Local custom was, and in many instances still is, dictated by the passive temperature of the local passive cave or cellar. Do not be fooled into thinking that every passive cave or cellar is at the same temperature. They can vary considerably. So what is the “perfect temperature” today?

Most professionals will utilize temperatures between 45 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit, with the vast majority (myself included), opting for a temperature between 55 and 60 degrees. Anyone who tells you that THE ideal temperature for storage is 50, 55, 60 or any other number within that broad range is expressing but an opinion, and perhaps a bit of self-aggrandizement, which should be weighed in light of the considerations above.